just in ohio, 22,000 furloughs in the civilian defense sector. the policies of this republican house are hampering robust economic growth across our country. the federal reserve agrees with what i am saying. in a recent hearing the chair of the fed said the economic recovery has continued at a moderate pace. in recent quarters, despite the strong head winds created by federal fiscal policy. unfortunately republicans will likely continue to refuse to compromise and focus on slowing the economy even further. we have already cut spending by $2.5 trillion. that has real impact on job creation. discretionary spending is at its lowest level in 45 years. the federal deficit is projected to be at its lowest level in recent memory, and the treasury has actually even recently made payments on the national debt. we need a jobs bill here not more reckless cuts. the president has a plan, the republicans don't. i would urge my republican colleagues, bring to the floor the president's jobs agenda, let's show america which party is committed to job creation in t